Belgium

Belgium is a fantastic destination for families, with its charming cities, delicious food, and rich history. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 2-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained!

Day 1: Brussels - The Heart of Belgium

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with some delicious Belgian waffles! Head to a local café like Maison Dandoy for a classic treat. The kids will love the toppings!
• Visit the Atomium: After breakfast, make your way to the Atomium, an iconic building and museum. The kids will be fascinated by the giant spheres, and you can take an elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the city. There’s also a fun exhibition inside!

Lunch:

• Lunch at Mini-Europe: Just a short walk from the Atomium, Mini-Europe is a miniature park featuring famous landmarks from across Europe. Grab a quick lunch at the café there, and let the kids explore the tiny versions of famous sites!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Royal Palace and Park: Head to the Royal Palace of Brussels. While you can’t go inside (it’s only open in the summer), the surrounding park is perfect for a family stroll. Let the kids run around and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
• Visit the Magritte Museum: If your family enjoys art, the Magritte Museum is a great stop. It’s not too big, so it won’t overwhelm the kids, and the surrealist art can spark some fun conversations!

Evening:

• Dinner in the City Center: Head to the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy dinner at one of the family-friendly restaurants nearby. Try some traditional Belgian dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew) or mussels!
• Chocolate Tasting: After dinner, treat the family to some Belgian chocolate! Visit a local chocolatier like Neuhaus or Pierre Marcolini for some sweet souvenirs.

Day 2: Bruges - The Fairy Tale City

Morning:

• Travel to Bruges: After breakfast, take a train to Bruges (about 1 hour from Brussels). The train ride is easy and fun for the kids!
• Canal Boat Tour: Once you arrive, hop on a canal boat tour. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective, and the kids will love being on the water!

Lunch:

• Lunch at a Local Bistro: After the boat tour, grab lunch at a family-friendly bistro. Try some Flemish stew or a croque monsieur, and don’t forget to order some fries with mayo – a Belgian classic!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Belfry of Bruges: Climb the 366 steps of the Belfry for a stunning view of the city. It’s a bit of a workout, but the kids will feel like adventurers!
• Explore the Markt Square: Spend some time in the Markt Square, where you can enjoy street performances, grab some ice cream, and take photos with the beautiful medieval buildings.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Pizzeria: For a relaxed dinner, find a cozy pizzeria where everyone can enjoy their favorite toppings.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Bruges. The city looks magical at night, and you can stop by a local shop for some last-minute souvenirs.

Tips for a Family-Friendly Trip:

• Transportation: Belgium has an excellent train system, making it easy to travel between cities. Consider getting a family pass for discounts.
• Pacing: Keep the pace relaxed and allow for breaks. Kids can get tired, so factor in some downtime.
• Snacks: Always have some snacks on hand! Belgian chocolate, waffles, and fries are great treats to keep the energy up.

I hope you and your family have an amazing time exploring Belgium! It’s a place filled with history, culture, and, of course, delicious food! Enjoy your adventure! 🍫🚂🏰